How to Layer Rugs in the Bedroom

Last Updated On August 29th, 2024
How to Layer Rugs in the Bedroom

Key Takeaways

  • Consider Shapes of Rugs: Choose the right rug shape to complement your bedroom’s layout, considering rectangular rugs under the bed and square or round rugs for sitting areas.
  • Choose Colors that Match Decor: Prioritize color coordination by selecting hues that complement the room’s color scheme, textures, and patterns, ensuring a cohesive and visually appealing look.
  • Add Texture But Don’t Clutter the Bedroom: Ensure the correct sizing of rugs, using larger rugs as the base layer and proportionate smaller rugs for added texture and visual interest, aiming for a balanced and harmonious space.

Want a quick and easy way to make your bedroom look better? Try layering rugs! It’s a simple trick that can make any space feel warmer and more interesting.

Layering rugs in the bedroom creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Mix and match different colors, patterns, and textures to give your sleeping space a stylish and personalized feel.

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In this article, we’ll explore how to layer rugs in the bedroom for a cozy and stylish upgrade. Get practical tips on where to place furniture, choose the right rug size, and coordinate colors for a perfect look.

Whether you’re a design novice or an experienced decorator, our advice covers accent rugs, large area rugs, and adding depth to rooms for that ideal touch.

Choosing the Right Rug Shape

The shape of your rug is important to ensure it works with your furniture layout. They can infuse whimsy, a cozy feeling, or a classic and traditional air depending upon the rug shape you pick.

A rectangular rug typically works well placed under the bed, extending at least 2 feet beyond each side of the bed. Square rugs can be used to define sitting areas within the bedroom, while round rugs can add a playful touch to the room. Half-circle and quarter-circle rugs can give a unique definition to a doorway or a corner of the bedroom.

There are even odder-sized rugs in blobby shapes or spirals you may find as you search, but those are the basic shapes you can expect.

Color Coordination Is Key

Choosing the right colors for layered bedroom rugs is another crucial point. Pick colors that fit well with the overall bedroom color scheme. Try using complementary hues for a dynamic contrast, or go for analogous colors for a more subtle look.

Don’t worry about perfect matches, as a bit of color variation adds interest and depth. Think of them like an accent pillow that adds pop when you arrange pillows on the bed. A bright rug can do the same for your room.

Think about the texture and pattern too. A bold pattern adds character, while a neutral base rug can be a solid foundation for the entire space. Opting for lighter-colored rugs or rugs with simple patterns can also help reflect light and create a sense of airiness, contributing to the perception of a larger room.

Consider accent rugs, jute rugs, and natural fiber rugs, and how they fit with your bed frame, nightstand, dresser, and other furniture pieces.

Considering the Sizing of the Rugs

When you’re layering rugs in the bedroom, sizing is key. Picking the right rug sizes and proportions is crucial for a visually balanced and harmonious space. Consider these layering techniques for a stylish, layered look.

And remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to layering carpets. Here are some layering techniques to keep in mind.

Start with the Base Rug

Start by choosing a larger rug as the bottom layer for the bedroom. Center it in the space and let it extend beyond the bed edges by 2 to 3 feet on each side. This creates a cohesive foundation for the layered rug look, preventing any unsightly bulge.

It also helpfully defines your walkway pace, emphasizing the area you want to keep clear of clutter around the bed.

Layer with Smaller Rugs

After placing the bottom rug, add smaller rugs for extra texture and visual interest. Keep them proportionate to each other and the bed, aiming for rugs that are 2/3 the size of the bottom rug or smaller. This rule ensures the layers won’t overwhelm the space or make it feel cramped.

Experiment with different rugs like patterned rugs, sisal rugs, or jute rugs as the top layer for creative rug layering.

Experiment with Placement

Feel free to experiment with various rug placement techniques when layering. Try placing one rug at the foot of the bed or offsetting them at angles for a dynamic look. The key is to maintain balance and proportion throughout the space.

Strategic placement of rugs can even help a small bedroom feel bigger, creating the illusion of a more expansive and open space. Using rugs that extend beyond the bed or furniture can visually enlarge the area, making the room feel more spacious. Additionally, having rugs to define different functional areas within the bedroom can help organize the space effectively, making it appear more open and well-defined.

Just make you keep fire safety in the bedroom a top priority by keeping rugs away from electrical outlets, heaters, and other heat sources.

With these sizing and layering techniques, you can achieve a cozy and stylish upgrade to your bedroom decor. Consider using a top rug in solid styles or a smaller accent rug to make the overall feel complete when laying rugs.

Seasonal Fabrics and Layering Over Carpet

Consider the time of year when layering rugs in your bedroom for a cozy touch. In a winter bedroom, pair a plush faux fur rug over a flat-woven rug for a warm atmosphere. Think about what will complete your bedroom and turn into a retreat from the cold, sleet, and snow outdoors.

Meanwhile, for a summer bedroom, choose a light woven rug to add texture without overheating. Opt for sustainable materials like a natural fiber rug, bamboo, jute rug, or sisal rug for an eco-friendly option.

And don’t hesitate to layer rugs on top of wall-to-wall carpeting for added warmth and texture.  The same principles apply in the dining room and other areas of the home, where choosing a smaller, complementary rug can enhance the overall look.

Prioritizing Safety and Comfort

When layering rugs in the bedroom for added coziness and style, prioritize safety and comfort. This means ensuring your layered rugs aren’t tripping hazards, fire hazards, or environments where mold can thrive, while still maintaining the cozy, textured feel of a comfy bedroom.

Ensuring Safety

Prevent tripping hazards by using a rug pad designed for layered rugs, ensuring it stays in place and providing extra cushioning. Consider material and thickness when selecting rug pads to enhance safety without causing bunching or slipping. Also, use painter’s tape when putting down rug pads to secure them as a base layer under area rugs.

As for fire safety, ensure that rugs are made of fire-resistant materials, keep them clear of any heat sources and electrical outlets, and use rug pads to prevent slipping and bunching that can interfere with a speedy exit in an emergency situation. Regularly vacuuming and cleaning the rugs can also reduce the accumulation of flammable materials like dust and lint.

Lastly, consider how rugs can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew if you don’t take steps to control your bedroom’s humidity levels. Rugs can accumulate moisture from spills, high humidity levels, or even improper cleaning methods, leading to mold development.

To prevent such mold in the bedroom, it’s crucial to promptly address any spills or water damage, ensure adequate ventilation in the bedroom, and regularly clean and dry the rugs. Using moisture-resistant rugs and periodically airing out the bedroom can also help reduce the risk of mold formation.

Maximizing Comfort

For a cozy, plush feel underfoot, layer a fluffy, high-pile rug over a flat-woven one. This combination adds comfort and visual interest, just like what interior designers do. It’s perfect for rooms for limited space, such as in front of a queen bed in a small bedroom.

Natural fiber rugs, like jute or wool, bring a soft, organic texture to your bedroom, enhancing the overall well-being of your lovely space.

Strategic Placement Tips

When layering rugs, ensure a cohesive look by placing them strategically to define areas and highlight focal points. Start with a larger rug under the bed, with enough showing at the foot, and layer a slightly smaller one on top.

Consider furniture placement, center the rug under the bed, and let it extend beyond nightstands to create a seamless look and add depth to your space like a designer would.

Creating Focal Points

Create a focal point in your bedroom by using a rug. Layer a bold, uniquely patterned rug over a neutral one to make it stand out. Place the layered rugs under a statement piece of furniture, like a DIY bed canopy, for added emphasis. Consider using a large area rug or ones in standard sizes for a polished look.

Defining Spaces

Define specific areas in your bedroom by layering rugs. Anchor the bed with a larger rug for softness underfoot, and place a smaller rug on top to create a cozy seating or reading nook by where you store books in the bedroom. This adds visual boundaries, making the room feel organized and put together with the use of two rugs.

Using Visual Cues

Experiment with different rug placements to create a dynamic look in your bedroom. The placement of your rugs affects how the eye moves in the room. Try placing a neutral rug perpendicular to the bed to create a pathway to the window or balcony, or a rug that can draw visual interest to a reading nook or dresser when decorating a bedroom with slanted walls.

Learn how to layer rugs in bedroom by trying various orientations, like placing a neutral rug perpendicular to the bed or adding visual interest with a small rug at an angle, for a personalized and stylish touch.

FAQs

How can layering rugs in the bedroom upgrade the decor?

Layering rugs in the bedroom can add coziness and style to the overall decor. It creates visual interest and can help define different areas within the room. Enhance the ambiance of your bedroom by layering rugs, combining comfort with a touch of personal flair.

How should I consider the room layout and furniture placement when layering rugs?

When layering rugs in the bedroom, it’s important to consider the room layout and furniture placement. Choose rugs that complement the size and shape of your furniture and create a balanced visual arrangement. Rugs should add a touch of popping color, pattern, or texture, but they should not dominate the room. They should work with other decor pieces to draw attention to areas, but not be the sole focal points.

By harmonizing rug choices with your furniture and room layout, you not only achieve visual balance but also elevate the overall aesthetics of your bedroom.

How do I coordinate rug colors with my bedroom color scheme?

Color coordination is key when layering rugs in the bedroom. Select rug colors that work with the overall color scheme of the room. Consider using complementary hues or opting for rugs with patterns that tie into the existing colors, using similar shades as your bedding, curtains, or walls. Try different color combinations to find the perfect match for your bedroom decor, creating a harmonious and visually appealing layered rug arrangement.

What should I consider when it comes to sizing the rugs for layering?

When layering rugs in the bedroom, consider the sizing of the rugs to achieve a visually balanced space. Choose proportions and sizes that work well with the room’s dimensions and furniture placement. Experiment with different layering techniques to find the right look for your space.

How can I ensure safety and comfort when layering rugs in the bedroom?

Use rug pads to prevent slipping and tripping hazards. Additionally, consider the underfoot experience and choose rugs that provide a comfortable feel. For further safety against fires and mold or mildew, ensure that your rugs are in spots where they’ll stay dry and are out of reach of outlets and heat sources.

Remember, a well-layered rug not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your bedroom but also creates a secure and cozy haven for you to unwind in.

Is it OK to have 2 different rugs in the same room?

Yes, it is absolutely acceptable to have two different rugs in the same room. In fact, having multiple rugs can bring a sense of visual interest and texture to the space, creating a more dynamic and layered look.

By strategically choosing rugs that complement each other in terms of color, pattern, or texture, you can effectively enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the room. Mixing different rugs allows for creative expression and can help define separate areas within the room, adding depth and character to the overall design.

Should all the rugs in a room match?

While matching rugs can offer a sense of uniformity and cohesiveness to a space, mixing different rugs can bring a unique charm and personality to the room. Coordinating colors, patterns, and textures among the rugs can create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere, allowing for a more dynamic and eclectic design.

Using various rugs with complementary elements can add visual interest and depth, making the room feel more vibrant and engaging. Experimenting with different rug combinations can help you achieve a customized and well-balanced aesthetic that suits your personal style and preferences.

Conclusion

The art of layering rugs in the bedroom offers a quick and easy way to elevate your decor, adding warmth, style, and a personalized touch to your space. Whether you’re a design novice or an experienced decorator, or you’re working with a spacious master bedroom or a smaller studio apartment bedroom, the tips provided cover everything from choosing the right rug shape to experimenting with different color combinations and strategic placements.

Prioritizing safety and comfort, maximizing the coziness underfoot, and creating focal points contribute to the overall well-being and aesthetics of your bedroom. So, go ahead, explore the possibilities, and transform your bedroom into a stylish haven with the simple yet impactful technique of layering rugs.


About the author

Mitchell Tollsen is a graduate student and a freelance writer who’s contributed to the Early Bird blog for three years. Mitchell’s always been fascinated by the science of sleep and the restorative processes our bodies undergo when at rest. The self-titled “Sleep Expert” is always looking for ways to improve his shut-eye, and throughout the years has implemented numerous lifestyle changes and tried dozens of sleep-promoting gadgets to determine the best ways to truly get better rest.

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